Discovering natural wonders of Fort Lauderdale

The greater Fort Lauderdale area is known for its proximity to the Everglades, home to exotic plants and wildlife, as well as the historic lands of the Seminole Indians. Or, maybe you've traveled to Fort Lauderdale on business and have had the chance to visit the modern convention center downtown. Discover a new side of Fort Launderdale on a relaxing getaway; with its temperate climate and scenic beaches, this city offers the perfect opportunity to jump in your Ft. Lauderdale rental car to take in some of the natural wonders that make southern Florida unique. By taking a short drive, you'll see some of the most beautiful landmarks in the region without straying too far from the vibrant downtown district.

Butterfly World
Take your Ft. Lauderdale rent a car on a scenic drive to the charming city of Coconut Creek, which features the largest indoor butterfly aviary in North America. Founded in 1988, Butterfly World has expanded to include the largest free-flight hummingbird aviary in the nation as well as a lorikeet exhibit. Over 10,000 butterflies reside here, and because the sanctuary is located in tropical southern Florida, the number remains unchanged throughout the year. More than fifty species can be seen during any visit, and 150 species call Butterfly World home throughout the year. You can also join the "Bring Back the Butterflies" campaign, implemented to provide guests with gardening tips for their home region. Who knows? You may even come back with a green thumb after your visit.

Flamingo GardensExplore one of the oldest botanical gardens in Florida by taking your Ft. Lauderdale rent a car to Flamingo Gardens, a 60-acre site dedicated to preserving indigenous plants, trees and wildlife. The Wray Botanical Collection is home to 21 of the largest trees in Florida, and a breathtaking hammock made up of live oak trees that are over 200 years old. While visiting Flamingo Gardens, make your way over to the Everglades Wildlife Sanctuary, the largest collection of native Florida wildlife in the state. It gives permanently injured and non-releasable wildlife a place to call home, and features 83 native Florida species including otters, alligators, panthers and, of course, flamingos.

Anne Kolb Nature Center
Drive your rental car in Ft. Lauderdale to the West Lake Park and Anne Kolb Nature Center, where you can explore 1,500 acres of a mangrove ecosystem by foot, bike or paddle. If you're feeling adventurous, canoes and kayaks are available for rent, and three paddling trails are less than a mile from the Hollywood Beach oceanfront boardwalk. Or, for a relaxing visit, hop aboard a covered boat to take in a narrated tour of West Lake and its surrounding tidal creeks.